Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
2
Experience Next-Generation WiFi
Your new WiFi extender supports the 802.11ac networking
standard. This new standard offers better speed, improved
reliability, and more range than older WiFi networking standards.
Your extender is backward compatible with prior WiFi standards.
However, to get the benefits of 802.11ac, your router must
support the 802.11ac WiFi networking standard.
To learn more about the 802.11ac WiFi networking standard, visit
http://www.netgear.com/landing/80211ac/.
3
Optimize Your WiFi
The NETGEAR WiFi Analytics app provides detailed information to
help you optimize your WiFi home network. To install the app, visit
the Google Play store or scan the QR code.
The WiFi Analytics app provides the following:
Network status. Get an overview of all available WiFi
networks, including signal strength, channel, security protocol,
MAC address, and more.
Channel interference. Identify crowded and clear WiFi
channels and get channel connection recommendations.
Signal strength. Determine the data rate available in various
locations in your home.
4
Share Files Across Your Network
You can share data that is stored on most common USB storage
devices across your network with ReadySHARE USB Storage
Access.
5
To access a USB device from a Mac:
1. Insert your USB storage drive into the USB 3.0 port on the
extender.
2. In Finder, select Go > Connect to Server.
3. In the Server Address field, type smb://readyshare as the
server address.
4. Click the Connect button.
To change the ReadySHARE folder name on the extender:
If you have a NETGEAR router that supports ReadySHARE, the
routers default ReadySHARE folder name is \\readyshare. The
extenders default ReadySHARE folder name is also
\\readyshare. You can change the extenders default
ReadySHARE folder name so that you can tell the folders apart.
1. Open a browser on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone and visit
www.mywifiext.net.
2. Log in using the following credentials:
User name. admin
Password. password
3. Select USB Storage > Advanced Settings.
The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) screen displays.
6
4. In the Network/Device Name field, type a new name.
Note: After you change the network/device name, the folder name
also changes.
5. Click on the Apply button.
Your changes are saved.
8
Connect Ethernet-Enabled Devices
You can use your extender to wirelessly connect as many as five
Ethernet-enabled devices, such as smart TVs, game consoles, and
Blu-ray players, to your WiFi router or access point at gigabit
speeds.
After your set up your extender, plug the Ethernet cable from a
device directly into the extenders gigabit Ethernet port.
Ethernet ports
9
Connect a Printer
To connect a printer to your extender and enjoy wireless printing
from your laptop and other devices, use your extenders
ReadySHARE Printer feature.
To set up your printer:
1. See if your computer already has the printer driver software
installed.
A printer driver is the software that enables your computer to
communicate with your printer.
If your computer has printer driver software installed, go to
Step 2.
If your computer does not have printer driver software already
installed, follow these steps:
a. Locate the printer driver software for your computer.
It usually comes on a CD in the box with your printer. You
can also download the latest software from your printer
manufacturers website.
b. Insert the CD or launch the download.
The driver guides you through the installation.
10
2. Connect your printers USB cable to the extenders USB port.
11
If you have problems printing, follow these troubleshooting tips:
Some firewall software blocks the ReadySHARE Print utility
from accessing the printer. If you do not see the printer listed in
the NETGEAR USB Control Center utility, disable the firewall
temporarily to allow the utility to work.
The NETGEAR USB Control Center utility must be running in the
background for printer sharing to work. If you exit the utility,
you cannot access the printer on your WiFi network.
If the printer status is manually connected or otherwise
unavailable, it means the printer is in use. It becomes available
after the current job is finished or the connection times out. The
default time-out is 30 seconds. You can change the default
time-out setting in the NETGEAR USB Control Center by
selecting Tools > Configuration.
12
Change Your Settings
To change your password or other settings:
1. Connect to the extenders WiFi network.
2. Open a browser on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone and visit
www.mywifiext.net.
3. Log in using the following credentials:
User name. admin
Password. password
If you changed the default password, enter the password you
created.
4. Make any needed changes.
13
FAQ
Here is where you can find answers for difficulties you might
experience.
NETGEAR genie keeps asking me for my WiFi password and I
am sure I entered the correct password. What can I do?
It is likely that your extender is placed at the borderline of the signal
range covered by your main WiFi router. To improve your signal
strength, move your extender closer to your router and make sure
that the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED lights solid amber or green.
Best Connection
Good Connection
Poor Connection
No Connection
Will the extender work if I connect it to my main WiFi router
with an Ethernet cable?
No, your extender is designed only to connect wirelessly to the
router.
14
My router security is WEP, and I entered the wrong
passphrase or security key on the extender. I cannot access
the extender anymore. What can I do?
The extender cannot check to see if the WEP passphrase is correct.
If you entered the wrong passphrase, your wireless device is not
able to get the IP address from the extender. You must reset the
extender to the factory defaults to get the IP address back.
I am connected to NETGEAR_EXT and launched a browser.
Why am I unable to see NETGEAR genie?
Try these troubleshooting steps:
Make sure that your computer is set up to use DHCP (most
are).
Make sure that the Client Link LED is green and that you have a
valid IP address.
Relaunch the web browser and type www.mywifiext.net or
www.mywifiext.com in the address field of the web browser.
Enter admin for the user name and password for the password.
15
What are the default user name and password to log in to the
extender?
If you are online at http://www.mywifiext.net, you can use the
following to log in:
User name. admin
Password. password
I completed the NETGEAR genie smart setup, but my wireless
devices cannot get the IP address from the extender. What
should I do?
Make sure that the passphrase you entered on your wireless device
is correct, and power cycle the extender and your router. If your
device is still not able to get the IP address, try these tips:
Move the extender closer to your router and move your
wireless device closer to the extender.
Disable the wireless interface and enable it again to see if your
wireless device can get the IP address.
If your router has a MAC filter, wireless access control, or
access list, follow the instructions on page 17.
16
I enabled a wireless MAC filter, wireless access control, or
access control list (ACL) on my router. What should I do when
installing the extender?
When the WiFi device connects through the extender to your
router, the MAC address of the WiFi device shown on the router is
translated to another MAC address. If your router's MAC filter,
wireless access control, or ACL is enabled, the WiFi device connects
to the extender but cannot get an IP address from the extender and
cannot access the Internet.
To allow the WiFi device to receive an IP address from the extender
and access the Internet, you must provide the translated MAC
address to the router.
To add a translated MAC address to your router:
1. Log in to your router and disable the MAC filter, wireless
access control, or ACL.
For more information on how to disable your routers MAC
filter, wireless access control, or ACL, see your routers
documentation.
2. Power on the extender and connect all of your WiFi devices to the
extender.
3. Make sure that the Link Rate LED remains lit.
17
4. Log in to your extender.
a. Launch a web browser and in the address field, enter
www.mywifiext.net or www.mywifiext.com.
A login screen displays.
b. Enter admin for the user name and password for the
password.
5. Select Maintenance > Attached Devices.
The Attached Devices screen displays the MAC addresses and
virtual MAC addresses for computers and WiFi devices that are
connected to the extender network.
6. On the router, add all of the virtual MAC addresses from your
extender to your routers MAC filter table.
7. Pull out the product label from the extender and find the
extenders MAC 1 and MAC 2 addresses.
8. Add the extenders MAC 1 address to your routers MAC filter
table.
9. Add the extenders MAC 2 address to your routers MAC filter
table.
You must type 02:0F:B5: first, then type the last six digits of your
MAC 2 address after.
For example, if your MAC 2 address is C4:04:15:5F:20:AC, type
02:0F:B5:5F:20:AC in your routers MAC filter table.
18
10. Convert the extenders MAC 1 address and add the new MAC 1
address to your routers MAC filter table.
For more information, see the user manual.
a. Convert the first two hexadecimal values in the extenders
MAC 1 address to binary.
See the user manual for the conversion table.
b. Toggle the second to last digit of the binary code to one or
zero.
If the second to last digit is one, toggle it to zero. If the
second to last digit is zero, toggle it to one.
c. Convert the new binary code back to a hexadecimal value.
See the user manual for the conversion table.
d. Replace the first two hexadecimal values in the old MAC 1
address with the new value you converted and add the
new MAC 1 address to your routers MAC filter table.
For example, if your old MAC 1 address was
C4:04:15:5F:20:AD, your new MAC 1 address is
C6:04:15:5F:20:AD.
11. Enable the routers MAC filter, wireless access control, or ACL.
19
Technical Support
Thank you for purchasing this NETGEAR product. After installing your device, locate the
serial number on the label of your product and use it to register your product at
https://my.netgear.com. You must register your product before you can use NETGEAR
telephone support. NETGEAR recommends registering your product through the
NETGEAR website.
For product updates and web support, visit http://support.netgear.com.
NETGEAR recommends that you use only the official NETGEAR support resources.
You can get the user manual online at http://downloadcenter.netgear.com or through a
link in the products user interface.
Trademarks
NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, and Connect with Innovation are trademarks and/or
registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and/
or other countries. Information is subject to change without notice. NETGEAR, Inc. All
rights reserved.
Compliance
For the current EU Declaration of Conformity, visit
http://support.netgear.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/11621/.
For regulatory compliance information, visit
http://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory/.
See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.
NETGEAR, Inc.
350 East Plumeria Drive
San Jose, CA 95134, USA
July 2014
EX6200 WiFi Range Extender
AC1200 High Power Dual Band Gigabit Ports
Installation Guide
Getting Started
Does your WiFi router have a WPS button?
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is an easy way to connect WiFi devices. The button might look like one of these:
The Link Rate LEDs help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router The Link Rate LEDs help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router
connection is optimal. See the Indicator LEDs section on the back to learn how connection is optimal. See the Indicator LEDs section on the back to learn how
the LEDs show the best connection. If you get no connection or a poor the LEDs show the best connection. If you get no connection or a poor
connection, move the extender closer to your WiFi router and try again until connection, move the extender closer to your WiFi router and try again until
the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED lights green. the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED lights green.
Select the new network and use your WiFi router password to connect. You Select the new network and use your WiFi router password to connect. You
are now using your extended WiFi network. are now using your extended WiFi network.
EX6200 WiFi Range Extender
AC1200 High Power Dual Band Gigabit Ports
Installation Guide
Hardware
Front panel Rear panel
Support
After installing your extender, locate the serial number on the label and use it to register your product at https://my.netgear.com. You must register your product
before you can use NETGEAR telephone support. NETGEAR recommends registering your product through the NETGEAR website.
For product updates and web support, visit http://support.netgear.com.
You can get the user manual online at http://downloadcenter.netgear.com or through a link in the products user interface.
NETGEAR recommends that you use only the official NETGEAR support resources.
NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, and Connect with Innovation are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United
States and/or other countries. Information is subject to change without notice. Other brand and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their
respective holders. NETGEAR, Inc. All rights reserved.
NETGEAR, Inc. 350 East Plumeria Drive, San Jose, CA 95134 USA January 2014
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Model E X6200
User Manual
February 2014
202-11298-01
Support
Thank you for selecting NETGEAR products.
After installing your device, locate the serial number on the label of your product and use it to register your product at
https://my.netgear.com. You must register your product before you can use NETGEAR telephone support. NETGEAR
recommends registering your product through the NETGEAR website. For product updates and web support, visit
http://support.netgear.com.
Phone (US & Canada only): 1-888-NETGEAR.
Phone (Other Countries): Check the list of phone numbers at http://support.netgear.com/general/contact/default.aspx.
Compliance
For regulatory compliance information, visit http://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory.
See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.
Trademarks
NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, and Connect with Innovation are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc.
and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. Information is subject to change without notice.
NETGEAR, Inc. All rights reserved.
2
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Overview
Unpack Your Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Top Panel LEDs and Front Panel USB Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Rear Panel Ports, Buttons, Antennas, and Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Attach the Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Attach the Rubber Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
When to Use Your Extender. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
How the Extender Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Support for the 801.11ac Networking Standard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
4
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
You Cannot Join a WiFi Network and Receive an Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Improve the Connection Between the Extender and the WiFi Router. . . . . . . 116
5
1. Overview
1
This user manual is for the NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi Range Extender, model EX6200, which is
referred to as the extender.
This chapter covers the following topics:
Unpack Your Extender
Top Panel LEDs and Front Panel USB Port
Rear Panel Ports, Buttons, Antennas, and Connector
Attach the Stand
Attach the Rubber Feet
When to Use Your Extender
How the Extender Works
Support for the 801.11ac Networking Standard
Note: For more information about the topics covered in this manual, visit the
support website at support.netgear.com.
Note: Firmware updates with new features and bug fixes are made
available from time to time on downloadcenter.netgear.com. Some
products can regularly check the site and download new firmware, or
you can check for and download new firmware manually. If the
features or behavior of your product does not match what is
described in this guide, you might need to update your firmware.
Note: In this manual, the terms wireless and WiFi are interchangeable.
6
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
USB LED
USB 3.0 port (on the front panel)
Overview
7
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
LED Description
Green. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi
router is optimum.
Note: If you press the WPS button on the rear panel of the extender, the LED
blinks green for two minutes.
Amber. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi
router is good.
2.4 GHz Link Rate LED
Note: This LED also lights amber during the startup process of the extender.
After about one minute, the LED lights green or turns off, depending on the
WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi network.
Red. The 2.4 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router
is poor.
Off. The extender and the WiFi router do not have a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection.
Green. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router
is optimum.
Note: If you press the WPS button on the rear panel of the extender, the LED
blinks green for two minutes.
Amber. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router
is good.
5 GHz Link Rate LED
Note: This LED also lights amber during the startup process of the extender.
After about one minute, the LED lights green or turns off, depending on the
WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi network.
Red. The 5 GHz WiFi connection between the extender and the WiFi router is
poor.
Off. The extender and the WiFi router do not have a 5 GHz WiFi connection.
Amber. The extender is starting or is applying WiFi settings. After about one
minute, the LED turns green.
During the startup process, both Link Rate LEDs also light amber. After about
one minute, these LED light green or turn off, depending on the WiFi
connection between the extender and the WiFi network.
Note: The Device to Extender LED blinks amber during a firmware update.
Overview
8
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
LED Description
USB LED Solid Green. A USB device is connected to the USB port.
The antennas are preinstalled. In the unlikely situation that an antenna has loosened, you
must tighten it. (A loose antenna could affect the performance of the extender.)
Overview
9
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
To tighten an antenna:
1. Straighten the antenna.
2. Turn the antenna clockwise until tightened.
After you have tightened the antenna, you can change its position.
Overview
10
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Overview
11
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
WiFi Range
Extender
Boosts the range of your
existing WiFi and creates
a stronger signal in
hard-to-reach areas. Existing WiFi
Sometimes your router
does not provide the WiFi
coverage you need.
Overview
12
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Overview
13
2. Get Started
2
This chapter covers the following topics:
How to Position the Extender
Connect the Extender to Your WiFi Router
Connect the Extender with WPS to a WiFi Network
Access the Extender over WiFi and Use Smart Setup
Access the Extender over Ethernet and Use Smart Setup
14
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
The best connection is established with a clear line of sight between the extender and the
WiFi router and a clear line of sight between the extender and the WiFi device that you are
using. If a thick wall or other materials block this straight path, move the extender to a
different location halfway between the WiFi device and the WiFi router.
Depending on the location that you decide on, either place the extender horizontally or attach
the stand and place the extender vertically. Although the extender functions well in either
horizontal or vertical position, a horizontal position might give a better performance.
When you make the initial connection between the extender and the WiFi router, place the
extender close to the WiFi router. After you have established a connection between the
extender and the WiFi router, move the extender to the location where you intend to use it.
(You might need to unplug the extender, plug it in again at its new location, and restart it.)
Use the Link Rate LEDs on the extender to choose the location where the connection
between the extender and the WiFi router is optimal. These steps are described in detail in
the sections that describe how to connect the extender to a WiFi network.
Get Started
15
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
To connect the extender with WPS to a WiFi router and find the best location for the
extender:
1. Place the extender close to the WiFi router.
Note: In a later step in this procedure, after you have established a connection
to the WiFi router, you can place the extender at its permanent location.
Get Started
16
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
The location you choose must be within the range of your existing WiFi router network.
8. Plug the extender into an electrical outlet at the new location and restart the extender.
Unless the extender is outside the range of your WiFi router, the extender connects
automatically to the WiFi router.
The Link Rate LEDs help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router connection is
optimal. The following tables describe how the LEDs show the quality of the connection.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
If the Link Rate LED is off, the extender cannot connect to the WiFi router. If the Link Rate
LED is red, the extender has a poor connection to the WiFi router.
9. If the extender has no connection or a poor connection, move the extender closer to your
WiFi router and try again until the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED is green, or at least
amber.
10. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to connect to the extenders
newly created WiFi network.
By default, the extender adds _2GEXT to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and
_5GEXT to the end of the 5 GHz network name, for example:
Existing network name. MyNetworkName
New extended 2.4 GHz network name. MyNetworkName_2GEXT
New extended 5 GHz network name. MyNetworkName_5GEXT
11. Select the new network and use your WiFi router password to connect.
You are now using your extended WiFi network.
Get Started
17
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see Improve the Connection Between the Extender and
the WiFi Router on page 116.
To access the extender over WiFi and use Smart Setup to connect the extender to an
existing WiFi network:
1. Place the extender close to the WiFi router.
Note: In a later step in this procedure, after you have established a connection
to the WiFi router, you can place the extender at its permanent location.
Get Started
18
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
You can use any WiFi network utility on a computer, tablet, or smartphone to find and
connect to the NETGEAR_EXT WiFi network of the extender. The following figure shows
an example of a WiFi network utility.
After the connection with the computer or mobile device is established, the Device to
Extender LED lights solid green.
6. Open a web browser window from the same computer or mobile device.
The browser takes you directly to the NETGEAR genie Smart Setup start screen.
Note: If you are not automatically directed to the NETGEAR genie Smart
Setup start screen, go to www.mywifiext.net, and enter admin for the
user name and password for the password.
Smart Setup searches for existing WiFi networks automatically and displays the networks
in the 2.4 GHz band.
Get Started
19
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
7. Select a 2.4 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
8. Enter the security settings for the existing 2.4 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
Get Started
20
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
If Smart Setup detects any networks in the 5 GHz band, it displays them.
9. Select a 5 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
Note: If your router does not support the 5 GHz band (not all routers do) or
you want to set up the 5 GHz extender network later, click the Skip
button, and go to Step 11 on page 22.
10. Enter the security settings for the existing 5 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
Get Started
21
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
Smart Setup displays the network names and adds _2GEXT to the end of the 2.4 GHz
network name and _5GEXT to the end of the 5 GHz network name.
11. Use the default extension names, or, in the Name (2.4GHz SSID) field, and, if you have set
up a 5 GHz network, in the Name (5GHz SSID) field, enter new network names for your
extender WiFi networks, and click the Continue button.
Note: If you do not want to use the same security modes for your extender
networks as you use for your existing networks, clear the check box
before you click the Continue button. You then can configure the
security settings for the extender networks. However, you can also
change the security settings later.
Get Started
22
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
12. Wait a couple of minutes while the extender creates the WiFi networks.
When the extender is ready, Smart Setup summarizes the extender networks.
13. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to connect to the extenders
newly created 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi network.
Note: Unless you entered a new network name in Step 11, the extender
changes its default NETGEAR_EXT network name to the name of the
WiFi network to which you connected the extender and adds _2GEXT
to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and _5GEXT to the end of the
5 GHz network name.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see Improve the Connection Between the Extender and
the WiFi Router on page 116.
14. Select the My wireless devices are connected to the Extender network check box, and
click the Continue button.
Get Started
23
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Smart Setup describes the color of the Link Rate LED on the front of the extender.
Because you placed the extender close the WiFi router, the Link Rate LED is green.
Get Started
24
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
The Link Rate LEDs help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router connection is
optimal. The following tables describe how the LEDs show the quality of the connection.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
If the Link Rate LED is off, the extender cannot connect to the WiFi router. If the Link Rate
LED is red, the extender has a poor connection to the WiFi router.
22. If the extender has no connection or a poor connection, move the extender closer to your
WiFi router and try again until the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED is green, or at least
amber.
23. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to reconnect to the
extenders WiFi network.
Note: Unless you entered a new network name in Step 11, the extender
changes its default NETGEAR_EXT network name to the name of the
WiFi network to which you connected the extender and adds _2GEXT
to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and _5GEXT to the end of the
5 GHz network name.
24. Select the new network and use your WiFi router password to connect.
You are now using your extended WiFi network.
Get Started
25
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Note: After you have set up the extender, you can also connect
Ethernet-enabled devices such as gaming consoles and printers to
the Ethernet LAN ports of the extender. For more information, see
Connect Ethernet-Enabled Devices on page 72.
To access the extender from a computer over Ethernet and use Smart Setup to
connect the extender to an existing WiFi network:
1. Place the extender close to the WiFi router.
Note: In a later step in this procedure, after you have established a connection
to the WiFi router, you can place the extender at its permanent location.
Get Started
26
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
You can use any of the five Ethernet LAN ports of the extender.
CAUTION:
Do not use an Ethernet cable to connect the extender to a WiFi router. If
you do so, the extender does not work because it is designed to use only a
WiFi connection to a WiFi router.
Note: If you are not automatically directed to the NETGEAR genie Smart
Setup start screen, go to www.mywifiext.net, and enter admin for the
user name and password for the password.
Get Started
27
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Smart Setup searches for existing WiFi networks automatically and displays the networks
in the 2.4 GHz band.
8. Select a 2.4 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
Get Started
28
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
9. Enter the security settings for the existing 2.4 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
If Smart Setup detects any networks in the 5 GHz band, it displays them.
10. Select a 5 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
Note: If your router does not support the 5 GHz band (not all routers do) or
you want to set up the 5 GHz extender network later, click the Skip
button, and go to Step 12 on page 31.
Get Started
29
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
11. Enter the security settings for the existing 5 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
Smart Setup displays the network names and adds _2GEXT to the end of the 2.4 GHz
network name and _5GEXT to the end of the 5 GHz network name.
Get Started
30
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
12. Use the default extension names, or, in the Name (2.4GHz SSID) field, and, if you have set
up a 5 GHz network, in the Name (5GHz SSID) field, enter new network names for your
extender WiFi networks, and click the Continue button.
Note: If you do not want to use the same security modes for your extender
networks as you use for your existing networks, clear the check box
before you click the Continue button. You then can configure the
security settings for the extender networks. However, you can also
change the security settings later.
13. Wait a couple of minutes while the extender creates the WiFi networks.
When the extender is ready, Smart Setup summarizes the extender networks.
14. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to connect to the extenders
newly created 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi network.
Get Started
31
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Note: Unless you entered a new network name in Step 12, the extender
changes its default NETGEAR_EXT network name to the name of the
WiFi network to which you connected the extender and adds _2GEXT
to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and _5GEXT to the end of the
5 GHz network name.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see Improve the Connection Between the Extender and
the WiFi Router on page 116.
15. Select the My wireless devices are connected to the Extender network check box, and
click the Continue button.
Smart Setup describes the color of the Link Rate LED on the front of the extender.
Because you placed the extender close the WiFi router, the Link Rate LED is green.
Get Started
32
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
The location you choose must be within the range of your existing WiFi router network.
23. Plug the extender into an electrical outlet at the new location and restart the extender.
Unless the extender is outside the range of your WiFi router, the extender connects
automatically to the WiFi router.
The Link Rate LEDs help you choose a spot where the extender-to-router connection is
optimal. The following tables describe how the LEDs show the quality of the connection.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
If the Link Rate LED is off, the extender cannot connect to the WiFi router. If the Link Rate
LED is red, the extender has a poor connection to the WiFi router.
24. If the extender has no connection or a poor connection, move the extender closer to your
WiFi router and try again until the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Link Rate LED is green, or at least
amber.
25. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to reconnect to the
extenders WiFi network.
Note: Unless you entered a new network name in Step 12, the extender
changes its default NETGEAR_EXT network name to the name of the
WiFi network to which you connected the extender and adds _2GEXT
to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and _5GEXT to the end of the
5 GHz network name.
26. Select the new network and use your WiFi router password to connect.
You are now using your extended WiFi network.
Get Started
33
3. Manage the Extender Network and
Security Settings 3
This chapter covers the following topics:
Log In to the Extender After Initial Setup
Change the Password
Set Up Password Recovery
Connect the Extender to a WiFi Network Without Using Smart Setup
Connect the Extender to a Hidden WiFi Network
Use WPS to Add a Computer to the Extenders WiFi Network
Manage the Extender WiFi Settings
Change the Extender IP Address and Device Name
Manage Advanced WiFi and WPS Settings
Manage a WiFi Access List
Set the Operating Mode to FastLane Technology
Run Smart Setup Again After Initial Setup
Connect Ethernet-Enabled Devices
34
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Note: NETGEAR recommends that you set a more secure password after you
log in. For more information, see Change the Password on page 37.
The Status screen displays (see the following figure). Menu selections display on the left.
The Status screen shows the current settings for the extender. The firmware version
displays below the language menu.
For more information about the Status screen, see View the Status and Traffic Statistics
of the Extender on page 79.
For information about upgrading firmware, see Update the Firmware on page 78.
4. To change your language, select a language from the menu in the top right of the screen.
By default, the language selection is Auto, which means that the extender uses the
language that it detects from the browser that you use.
Note: You cannot use the following procedure to change the network names
or security options for your extender WiFi networks. For information
about how to change these settings, see Manage the Extender WiFi
Settings on page 48.
To change the extender connection to another WiFi network without using Smart
Setup:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Settings > Connect to Existing Network.
The extender scans for existing WiFi networks and displays the networks in the 2.4 GHz
band.
If your WiFi network is functioning but not on the list, your WiFi network might be hidden,
or the connection between the WiFi router and the extender might be poor. For more
information, see the following sections:
Connect the Extender to a Hidden WiFi Network on page 42
Improve the Connection Between the Extender and the WiFi Router on page 116
5. Select the radio button for the 2.4 GHz network to which you want to connect the extender,
and click the Continue button.
6. Enter the security settings for the existing 2.4 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
If the extender detects any networks in the 5 GHz band, it displays them.
If your WiFi network is functioning but not on the list, your WiFi network might be hidden,
or the connection between the WiFi router and the extender might be poor. For more
information, see the following sections:
Connect the Extender to a Hidden WiFi Network on page 42
Improve the Connection Between the Extender and the WiFi Router on page 116
7. Select the radio button for the 5 GHz network to which you want to connect the extender,
and click the Continue button.
Note: If your router does not support the 5 GHz band (not all routers do) or
you do not yet want to change the 5 GHz network to which the extender
connects, click the Skip button, and go to Step 9 on page 70.
10. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or on a mobile device to reconnect to the
extenders WiFi network.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see You Cannot Join a WiFi Network and Receive an
Error Message on page 115.
Note: You cannot use the following procedure to change the network names or
security options for your extender WiFi networks. For information about how to
change these settings, see Manage the Extender WiFi Settings on page 48.
To connect the extender to a hidden WiFi network without using Smart Setup:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Settings > Connect to Existing Network.
The extender scans for existing WiFi networks and displays the networks in the 2.4 GHz
band.
5. Select the Manually input my wireless SSID radio button, and click the Continue button.
The screen adjusts.
6. In the Name (SSID) field, enter the name of the 2.4 GHz network to which you want to
connect the extender.
7. From the Security menu, select the security setting for the 2.4 GHz network.
The screen adjusts.
8. Enter the security settings for the 2.4 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
If the extender detects any networks in the 5 GHz band, it displays them.
9. Select the Manually input my wireless SSID radio button, and click the Continue button.
Note: If your router does not support the 5 GHz band (not all routers do) or
you do not want to connect the extender to a hidden 5 GHz network,
click the Skip button, and go to Step 13 on page 44.
10. In the Name (SSID) field, enter the name of the 5 GHz network to which you want to
connect the extender.
11. From the Security menu, select the security setting for the 5 GHz network.
The screen adjusts.
12. Enter the security settings for the 5 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
13. Wait about two minutes while the extender connects to the hidden WiFi network or networks.
14. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or on a mobile device to reconnect to the
extenders WiFi network.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see You Cannot Join a WiFi Network and Receive an
Error Message on page 115.
Note: For information about using WPS to connect the extender to a WiFi
network during setup, see Connect the Extender with WPS to a WiFi
Network on page 16.
To let a WiFi device join the extenders WiFi network using WPS with the Push Button
method:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Add WPS Client.
The screen displays a description of the WPS method.
5. Click the Next button.
6. Either click the button onscreen or press the WPS button on the rear panel of the
extender.
Both Link Rate LEDs and the Device to Extender LED blink green for two
minutes.
For two minutes, the extender attempts to find the WiFi device (that is, the client) that you
want to join the extenders WiFi network.
7. Within two minutes, go to the WiFi device and press its WPS button (to join the extenders
WiFi network without entering a password.
8. To verify that the WiFi device is connected to the extenders WiFi network, select
Maintenance > Attached Devices.
The WiFi device displays onscreen.
To let a WiFi device join the extenders WiFi network using WPS with the PIN method:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
7. In the Enter Client's PIN field, enter the PIN number of the WiFi device.
8. Click the Next button.
For four minutes, the extender attempts to find the WiFi device (that is, the client) that you
want to join the extenders WiFi network.
9. Within four minutes, go to the WiFi device and use its WPS software to join the network
without entering a password.
10. To verify that the WiFi device is connected to the extenders WiFi network, select
Maintenance > Attached Devices.
The WiFi device displays onscreen.
Note: Although the WiFi security of the extenders network can be different
from the WiFi security of the network that the extender is connected
to, you typically would select the same type of WiFi security for both
networks.
In some regions, not all channels are available. Do not change the channel unless you
experience interference (shown by lost connections or slow data transfers). If this happens,
experiment with different channels to see which is the best.
When you use more than one WiFi router or access point, it is better if adjacent routers or
access points use different channels to reduce interference. NETGEAR recommends a
channel spacing of four channels between adjacent routers or access points (for example,
use Channels 1 and 5, or 6 and 10).
Note: You can change the channel only if you have enabled FastLane
Technology. For more information, see Set the Operating Mode to
FastLane Technology on page 65). In normal operating mode (also
referred to as Internet Surfing mode), you cannot change the channel.
Note: You can change the wireless mode in one radio band only if the
extender is connected to the WiFi router in the other radio band. For
example, you can change the wireless mode in the 2.4 GHz band only
if the extender is connected to the WiFi router in the 5 GHz band. If
the extender is connected to the WiFi router in the 2.4 GHz band, you
cannot change the wireless mode in the 2.4 GHz band because the
extender adapts the wireless mode that the WiFi router functions in.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Setting > Wireless.
Setting Description
Region Selection
Region From the Region menu, select the region in which you operate the extender.
Note: If you purchased the extender in the United States or Canada, the selection
from the Region menu is North America. You cannot change this selection.
Ethernet ports to WiFi Specify if the Gigabit Ethernet ports on the rear panel of the extender connect to
use the following band the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band by selecting one of the following radio
buttons:
2.4GHz. The Gigabit Ethernet ports connect to the 2.4 GHz WiFi band. This is
the default setting.
5GHz. The Gigabit Ethernet ports connect to the 5 GHz WiFi band.
Setting Description
Name (SSID) In the Name (SSID) field, type a new name or use the name that the extender
assigns by default:
Existing network name. MyNetworkName
New extended 2.4 GHz network name. MyNetworkName_2GEXT
If more than one extender operates in your neighborhood, changing the SSID
makes it easier to identify the extenders.
Channel From the Channel menu, select Auto for automatic channel selection, or select
an individual channel.
Note: You can change the channel only if you have enabled FastLane
Technology. For more information, see Set the Operating Mode to FastLane
Technology on page 65.
Note: In some regions, not all channels are available. Do not change the channel
unless you experience interference (shown by lost connections or slow data
transfers). If this happens, experiment with different channels to see which is the
best.
Wireless mode From the Wireless mode menu, select one of the following modes:
Up to 54 Mbps. Legacy mode. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g, and
802.11b devices to join the network, but limits 802.11n devices to function at
up to 54 Mbps. If your network security is WEP, you must use the Up to
54 Mbps mode.
Up to 145 Mbps. Neighbor friendly mode for reduced interference with
neighboring wireless networks. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g, and
802.11b devices to join the network, but limits 802.11n devices to function at
up to 145 Mbps. This mode is the default mode in the 2.4 GHz band.
Up to 300 Mbps. Performance mode. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g,
and 802.11b devices to join the network, and allows 802.11n devices to
function at up to 300 Mbps.
Note: You can change the wireless mode in the 2.4 GHz band only if the extender
is connected to the WiFi router in the 5 GHz band. If the extender is connected to
the WiFi router in the 2.4 GHz band, the extender adapts the wireless mode that
the WiFi router functions in and the Wireless mode menu is disabled.
Setting Description
Select the type of WiFi security that you want to use for the extenders 2.4 GHz WiFi network:
None. An open WiFi network that does not provide any security. Any WiFi device can join the network.
WEP. WEP is an older standard, and is less secure than WPA or WPA2. WEP limits the wireless mode
to Up to 54 Mbps. WEP uses encryption keys and data encryption for data security. Select 64-bit or
128-bit encryption and enter a key. To join the extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the key. For
more information, see Configure WEP on page 54.
WPA-PSK [TKIP]. WPA is more secure than WEP. Enter a passphrase. For more information, see
Configure WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
WPA2-PSK [AES]. WPA2 is even more secure than WEP, but some older WiFi devices do not detect
WPA2. Enter a passphrase. To join the extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the passphrase. For
more information, see Configure WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PASK [AES]. When your network includes WiFi devices that support either
WPA or WPA2, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PASK [AES] security. Enter a passphrase. To join the
extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the passphrase. For more information, see Configure WPA,
WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
Name (SSID) In the Name (SSID) field, type a new name or use the name that the extender
assigns by default:
Existing network name. MyNetworkName
New extended 5 GHz network name. MyNetworkName_5GEXT
If more than one extender operates in your neighborhood, changing the SSID
makes it easier to identify the extenders.
Channel From the Channel menu, select Auto for automatic channel selection, or select
an individual channel.
Note: You can change the channel only if you have enabled FastLane
Technology. For more information, see Set the Operating Mode to FastLane
Technology on page 65.
Note: In some regions, not all channels are available. Do not change the channel
unless you experience interference (shown by lost connections or slow data
transfers). If this happens, experiment with different channels to see which is the
best.
Setting Description
Wireless mode From the Wireless mode menu, select one of the following modes:
Up to 54 Mbps. Legacy mode. This mode allows 802.11ac, 802.11an, and
802.11a devices to join the network, but limits 802.11ac and 802.11n devices
to function at up to 54 Mbps. If your network security is WEP, you must use
the Up to 54 Mbps mode.
Up to 174 Mbps. Neighbor friendly mode for reduced interference with
neighboring wireless networks. This mode allows 802.11ac, 802.11an, and
802.11a devices to join the network, limits 802.11ac to function at up to
174 Mbps, and limits 802.11an devices to function at up to 150 Mbps.
Up to 400 Mbps. Performance mode for networks with many 802.11n
devices. This mode has a bandwidth of 40 MHz, allows 802.11ac, 802.11an,
and 802.11a devices to join the network, limits 802.11ac to function at up to
400 Mbps, and allows 802.11an devices to function at up to 300 Mbps.
Up to 867 Mbps. Performance mode for networks with many 802.11ac
devices. This mode has a bandwidth of 80 MHz, allows 802.11ac, 802.11an,
and 802.11a devices to join the network, allows 802.11ac devices to function
at up to 867 Mbps, and allows 802.11an devices to function at up to
300 Mbps. This mode is the default mode in the 5 GHz band.
Note: You can change the wireless mode in the 5 GHz band only if the extender
is connected to the WiFi router in the 2.4 GHz band. If the extender is connected
to the WiFi router in the 5 GHz band, the extender adapts the wireless mode that
the WiFi router functions in and the Wireless mode menu is disabled.
Select the type of WiFi security that you want to use for the extenders 5 GHz WiFi network:
None. An open WiFi network that does not provide any security. Any WiFi device can join the network.
WEP. WEP is an older standard, and is less secure than WPA or WPA2. WEP limits the wireless mode
to Up to 54 Mbps. WEP uses encryption keys and data encryption for data security. Select 64-bit or
128-bit encryption and enter a key. To join the extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the key. For
more information, see Configure WEP on page 54.
WPA-PSK [TKIP]. WPA is more secure than WEP. Enter a passphrase. For more information, see
Configure WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
WPA2-PSK [AES]. WPA2 is even more secure than WEP, but some older WiFi devices do not detect
WPA2. Enter a passphrase. To join the extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the passphrase. For
more information, see Configure WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PASK [AES]. When your network includes WiFi devices that support either
WPA or WPA2, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PASK [AES] security. Enter a passphrase. To join
the extenders WiFi network, a user must enter the passphrase. For more information, see Configure
WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 on page 53.
CAUTION:
If you use a WiFi device to change the extenders WiFi settings, you are
disconnected when you click the Apply button. To reconnect, you must
select the new network name that you created, and enter the passphrase
or WiFi security key that you set up.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see You Cannot Join a WiFi Network and Receive an
Error Message on page 115.
The process to configure WPA, WPA2, or WPA + WPA2 security is the same for the 2.4 GHz
and 5 GHz bands.
5. Scroll down to either the Security Options (2.4GHz) section (shown in the previous figure) or
the Security Options (5GHz) section, and select the WPA-PSK [TKIP], WPA2-PSK [AES],
or WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES] radio button.
6. In the PassPhrase field, enter the passphrase.
7. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
8. If you are disconnected, reconnect your WiFi device to the extenders network with its new
settings.
Smart Setup can guide you through this process. For more information, see Run Smart
Setup Again After Initial Setup on page 67.
Configure WEP
WEP is legacy WiFi security that limits the wireless mode to the Up to 54 Mbps selection,
irrespective of whether you use the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band. Unless your WiFi
network includes devices that do not support WPA2 or WPA security, NETGEAR
recommends that you use WPA2, WPA, or WPA + WPA2 security.
Note: 802.11ac and 802.11n devices do not support WEP security. If you
change the security to WEP, 802.11ac devices and 802.11n devices in
either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band cannot join the network.
Note: WPS does not support WEP security. If you change the security to
WEP, you can no longer let WiFi devices join the extenders WiFi
network by using WPS.
The process to configure WEP security is the same for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
To set up WEP:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Settings > Wireless.
5. Scroll down to either the Security Options (2.4GHz) section (shown in the following figure) or
the Security Options (5GHz) section, and select the WEP radio button.
6. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength setting:
64 bit. Requires an encryption key of 10 hexadecimal digits (any combination of 09,
af, or AF) or a string of five characters.
CAUTION:
NETGEAR recommends that you change the IP address of the extender
only if you are technically experienced or have a technically experienced
person to help you. Incorrect configuration can prevent you from
connecting to the extender and might require you to reset the extender to
factory default settings.
You can also change the extender device name, which is the name by which the extender is
known in the network.
To change the IP address of the extender to a static IP address and specify a new
device name:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select extender Settings > IP Address.
Setting Description
Enable Wireless By default, the extender functions as a WiFi access point in the 2.4 GHz band.
Access Point (2.4GHz) Clear the Enable Wireless Access Point (2.4GHz) check box only if you want to
prevent WiFi devices from connecting to the extender in the 2.4 GHz band. LAN
devices can still connect to the extender over an Ethernet cable.
Enable SSID By default, the extender broadcasts its WiFi network name (SSID) for the 2.4 GHz
Broadcast (2.4GHz) band. Clear the Enable SSID Broadcast (2.4GHz) check box only to hide the
network name of the extender in the 2.4 GHz band. In such a situation, the
network name of the extender does not display in a WiFi network manager. A user
who wants to join the hidden WiFi network of the extender must know its network
name.
Enable Wireless By default, the extender functions as a WiFi access point in the 5 GHz band. Clear
Access Point (5GHz) the Enable Wireless Access Point (5GHz) check box only if you want to prevent
WiFi devices from connecting to the extender in the 5 GHz band. LAN devices can
still connect to the extender over an Ethernet cable.
Enable SSID By default, the extender broadcasts its WiFi network name (SSID) for the 5 GHz
Broadcast (5GHz) band. Clear the Enable SSID Broadcast (5GHz) check box only to hide the
network name of the extender in the 5 GHz band. In such a situation, the network
name of the extender does not display in a WiFi network manager. A user who
wants to join the hidden WiFi network of the extender must know its network
name.
WPS Settings
Extenders PIN This is a fixed field that shows the extenders PIN.
Setting Description
Enable Devices PIN By default, the Enable Device's PIN check box is selected and the extenders PIN
is enabled. For enhanced security, you can disable the extenders PIN by clearing
the Enable Device's PIN check box. However, when you disable the extenders
PIN, WPS is not disabled because you can still use the physical WPS button.
Note: The PIN function might temporarily be disabled when the router detects
suspicious attempts to break into the routers WiFi settings by using the routers
PIN through WPS.
Prevent PIN By default, automatic disabling of the PIN is turned on, and the PIN is disabled
compromise after three failed PIN connections. In this situation, the WPS LED blinks slowly.
When you restart the extender, the PIN is reenabled.
To turn off automatic disabling of the PIN, clear the check box below the Enable
Devices PIN check box. You can change this setting only when the PIN is
enabled.
To change the number of times that a PIN connection is allowed to fail, enter a
number in the field. You can change this number only when the PIN is enabled.
Keep Existing Wireless By default, the settings on the Wireless Settings screen remain the same when
Settings (2.4GHz b/g/n) you use WPS to establish a WiFi connection in the 2.4 GHz band. Clear the Keep
Existing Wireless Settings (2.4GHz b/g/n) check box only if you want to allow
the WPS process to change the SSID and passphrase for access in the 2.4 GHz
band on the Wireless Settings screen.
Keep Existing Wireless By default, the settings on the Wireless Settings screen remain the same when
Settings (5GHz a/n/ac) you use WPS to establish a WiFi connection in the 5 GHz band. Clear the Keep
Existing Wireless Settings (5GHz a/n/ac) check box only if you want to allow the
WPS process to change the SSID and passphrase for access in the 5 GHz band
on the Wireless Settings screen.
Note: If you clear a Keep Existing Wireless Settings check box and use
WPS to add a computer or WiFi device to the extenders network, the
SSID and passphrase are automatically generated and other devices
that are already connected to the extenders network might be
disconnected. You can view the SSID and passphrase on the Wireless
Settings screen (see Manage the Extender WiFi Settings on page 48).
NETGEAR recommends that you keep the Keep Existing Wireless
Settings check boxes selected.
Each network device has a MAC address, which is a unique 12-character physical address,
containing the hexadecimal characters 09, af, or AF only, and separated by colons (for
example, 00:09:AB:CD:EF:01). Typically, the MAC address is on the label of the WiFi device.
If you do not have access to the label, you can display the MAC address using the network
configuration utilities of the computer. You might also find the MAC addresses on the Network
Devices screen (see View the Wired and WiFi Network Devices on page 83).
CAUTION:
If you use a WiFi device to set up the access list, add your WiFi device to
the access list. Otherwise, you are disconnected when you click the Apply
button. To avoid this situation, use a computer with a wired connection to
access the extender.
If you have not yet added any WiFi devices, the Wireless Card Access List is empty.
6. Click the Add button.
The Available Wireless Cards table displays the name and MAC address of WiFi devices
that are connected to the extender.
7. Select a device by one of the following methods:
Select a device from the table by selecting its associated radio button.
The Device Name and MAC Address fields are automatically populated.
Enter a device name and MAC address manually:
a. In the Device Name field, type a name for the WiFi device.
b. In the MAC Address field, type the MAC address of the WiFi device.
8. Click the Apply button.
The WiFi device is added to the Wireless Card Access List.
CAUTION:
If you use a WiFi device to set up the access list, add your WiFi device to
the access list. Otherwise, you are disconnected when you click the Apply
button.
6. Select the radio button to the left of the device that you want to change.
7. Click the Edit button.
6. Select the radio button to the left of the device that you want to remove.
7. Click the Delete button.
The device is removed from the Wireless Card Access List.
Note: If all your devices and your WiFi router support only the 2.4 GHz
band, or all your devices and your WiFi router support only the 5 GHz
band, do not enable FastLane Technology.
Smart Setup searches for existing WiFi networks automatically and displays the networks
in the 2.4 GHz band.
5. Select a 2.4 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
6. Enter the security settings for the existing 2.4 GHz network:
If the network uses WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, or a combination of these options, do the
following:
a. In the Password (network key) field, type the network passphrase (also called
a password or network key).
b. Click the Continue button.
If the network uses WEP, do the following:
a. From the Encryption Strength menu, select the encryption strength (64 bit or
128 bit).
b. Select the radio button that corresponds to the key that you want to use (Key 1,
Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).
c. Next to the selected radio button, enter the network WEP key.
d. Click the Continue button.
If Smart Setup detects any networks in the 5 GHz band, it displays them.
7. Select a 5 GHz WiFi network to extend, and click the Continue button.
Note: If your router does not support the 5 GHz band (not all routers do) or
you want to set up the 5 GHz extender network later, click the Skip
button, and go to Step 9 on page 70.
Smart Setup displays the network names and adds _2GEXT to the end of the 2.4 GHz
network name and _5GEXT to the end of the 5 GHz network name.
9. Use the default extension names, or, in the Name (2.4GHz SSID) field, and, if you have set
up a 5 GHz network, in the Name (5GHz SSID) field, enter new network names for your
extender WiFi networks, and click the Continue button.
Note: If you do not want to use the same security modes for your extender
networks as you use for your existing networks, clear the check box
before you click the Continue button. You then can configure the
security settings for the extender networks. However, you can also
change the security settings later.
10. Wait a couple of minutes while the extender creates the WiFi networks.
When the extender is ready, Smart Setup summarizes the extender networks.
11. Use a WiFi network manager on the computer or mobile device to connect to the extenders
newly created 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi network.
Note: Unless you entered a new network name in Step 9, the extender
changes its default NETGEAR_EXT network name to the name of the
WiFi network to which you connected the extender and adds _2GEXT
to the end of the 2.4 GHz network name and _5GEXT to the end of the
5 GHz network name.
Note: If your computer or mobile device cannot join the new WiFi network of
the extender, see Improve the Connection Between the Extender and
the WiFi Router on page 116.
12. Select the My wireless devices are connected to the Extender network check box, and
click the Continue button.
Smart Setup describes the color of the Link Rate LED on the front of the extender.
Because you placed the extender close the WiFi router, the Link Rate LED is green.
73
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
CAUTION:
After you click the Restore button, do not try to go online, turn off the
extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender
until it finishes restarting!
CAUTION:
This process erases any settings that you have configured in the extender.
CAUTION:
This process erases any settings that you have configured in the extender.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Maintenance > Backup Settings.
CAUTION:
After you click the Erase button, do not try to go online, turn off the
extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender
until it finishes restarting!
To check manually for new firmware and, if available, update the firmware:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
CAUTION:
After you click the Upload button, do not try to go online, turn off the
extender, shut down the computer, or do anything else to the extender
until it finishes restarting!
To view the status of the extender, to view the traffic statistics, and to change the poll
interval:
1. On your computer, launch an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft
Internet Explorer.
2. In the address field of your browser, enter www.mywifiext.net.
You are prompted to enter a user name and password.
3. Type admin for the user name and type your password.
If you have not yet personalized your password, type password for the password.
4. Select Maintenance > Status.
Field Description
Firmware Version The current firmware version of the extender. If you upgrade the firmware, this field
changes.
GUI Language Version The language version that is set on the extender. If you upgrade the firmware, this
field might change.
Field Description
Name (SSID) The name (SSID) of the WiFi network in the 2.4 GHz band to which the extender is
connected.
Link Rate The combined transmission (Tx) and receive (Rx) link rate in Mbps of the current
WiFi connection in the 2.4 GHz band.
Signal Strength The signal strength that the extender detects for the WiFi network in the
2.4 GHz band.
Connection Status Shows whether the extender is connected to the WiFi network in the
2.4 GHz band.
If the extender is disconnected from the WiFi network in the 2.4 GHz band, a
Connect button displays. Click the Connect button connect the extender to the
WiFi network in the 2.4 GHz band.
Name (SSID) The name (SSID) of the WiFi network in the 5 GHz band to which the extender is
connected.
Link Rate The combined transmission (Tx) and receive (Rx) link rate in Mbps of the current
WiFi connection in the 5 GHz band.
Signal Strength The signal strength that the extender detects for the WiFi network in the
5 GHz band.
Connection Status Shows whether the extender is connected to the WiFi network in the 5 GHz band.
If the extender is disconnected from the WiFi network in the 5 GHz band, a
Connect button displays. Click the Connect button connect the extender to the
WiFi network in the 5 GHz band.
Extender IP Info
DHCP Client Shows whether the DHCP client of the extender is on.
IP Subnet Mask The IP subnet mask that is associated with the IP address of the extender. The
default is 255.255.255.0.
Domain Name Server The IP address of the Domain Name Server (DNS) of the WiFi network.
Field Description
Name (SSID) The name (SSID) of the WiFi network of the extender in the 2.4 GHz band.
Region The location in which the extender is operating in the 2.4 GHz band.
Channel The active channel of the WiFi network in the 2.4 GHz band.
Wireless mode The wireless mode in the 2.4 GHz band: Up to 54 Mbps, Up to 145 Mbps, or Up to
300 Mbps.
Wireless AP Shows whether the WiFi access point of the extender is on in the 2.4 GHz band.
Broadcast Name Shows whether broadcasting of the network name (SSID) of the extender is on in
the 2.4 GHz band.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup Shows whether Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is configured for the 2.4 GHz band.
Name (SSID) The name (SSID) of the WiFi network of the extender in the 5 GHz band.
Region The location in which the extender is operating in the 5 GHz band.
Channel The active channel of the WiFi network in the 5 GHz band.
Wireless mode The wireless mode in the 5 GHz band: Up to 54 Mbps, Up to 173 Mbps, Up to 400
Mbps, or Up to 867 Mbps.
Wireless AP Shows whether the WiFi access point of the extender is on in the 5 GHz band.
Broadcast Name Shows whether broadcasting of the network name (SSID) of the extender is on in
the 5 GHz band.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup Shows whether Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is configured for the 5 GHz band.
The following table describes the traffic statistics fields that display for each of the five
LAN ports, for the WLAN1 port in the 2.4 GHz band, and for the WLAN2 port in the 5 GHz
band.
Field Description
TxPkts The number of packets transmitted on the port since the extender was restarted.
RxPkts The number of packets received on the port since the extender was restarted.
Collisions The number of collisions on the port since the extender was restarted.
Tx B/s The packet transmission rate in bytes per second on the port.
Rx B/s The packet reception rate in bytes per second on the port.
For each wired and WiFi device, the IP address, device name, MAC address, and virtual
MAC address display.
5. (Optional) Click the Refresh button.
The information onscreen is updated.
85
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Note: If your USB drive has a power supply, you must use it when you
connect the USB drive to the extender.
When you connect the USB drive to the extender USB port, it might take up to two
minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB drive is available to all
computers on your local area network (LAN).
4. On your Mac computer, select Go > Connect to Server
5. In the Server Address field, type smb://readyshare as the server address.
6. Click the Connect button.
7. When prompted to enter your name and password, select the Guest radio button.
8. Click the Connect button.
A list of connected devices displays. This list includes the name admin if you log in as
admin.
9. From the Apple menu, select System Preferences.
10. Open Time Machine.
11. Click the Select Disk button and select your USB drive from the list.
12. Click the Use for Backup button.
Note: If you do not see the USB partition that you want in the Time Machine
disk list, go to Finder and click that USB partition. Then it displays in
the Time Machine list.
13. When prompted to enter your name and password, select the Guest radio button.
14. Click the Connect button.
When the setup is complete, the Mac automatically schedules a full backup. You can back up
immediately if you want.
5. Specify access to the USB storage device as described in the following table:
Setting Description
Network Device Name The name that is used to access the USB device. The default name is readyshare.
Workgroup The workgroup name, if you are using a Windows workgroup rather than a
domain. The name works only in an operating system that supports NetBIOS,
such as Microsoft Windows.
Access Method, Link, Select the check boxes for the access methods that you want to allow:
and Port Network Neighborhood/MacShare. This access method is enabled by
default.
HTTP. This access method is enabled by default over port 80.
The link to access the USB device over HTTP on your network (but not from
outside your network) is http://<IP-address>/readyshare, in which
<IP-address> is the IP address that has been assigned to the extender. You
can type this link in the address bar of a browser window.
FTP. This access method is disabled by default. If you enable this access
method, the port for FTP communication is number 21.
The link to access the USB device over FTP on your network (but not from
outside your network) is ftp://<IP-address>/readyshare, in which
<IP-address> is the IP address that has been assigned to the extender. You
can type this link in the address bar of a browser screen.
The Available Networks Folders table shows the network folders on the USB device. The
following table describes the columns of the Available Networks Folders table onscreen.
Column Description
Share Name The default share name is USB_Storage. If Not Shared is displayed, the default
share has been deleted, and no other share for the root folder exists.
Read Access The read and write permissions and access controls on the network folder.
All no password (which is the default setting) allows all users access to the
Write Access network folder. The password for admin is the same one that you use to log in to
the extender.
Column Description
Note: If the Create Network Folder screen does not display, your web
browser might be blocking pop-ups. If it is, change the browser settings
to allow pop-ups.
Setting Description
USB Device From the USB Device menu, select the USB drive.
Note: If you connect a USB hub to the USB port of the extender, the USB Device
menu can show more than one USB device.
5. Select the folder that you want to edit by selecting its associated radio button.
Note: If the Edit Network Folder screen does not display, your web browser
might be blocking pop-ups. If it is, change the browser settings to allow
pop-ups.
Setting Description
USB Device From the USB Device menu, select the USB drive.
Note: If you connect a USB hub to the USB port of the extender, the USB Device
menu can show more than one USB device.
File System The file system that the extender has detected. You cannot change this
information.
By default the Yes radio button is selected. This setting lets you connect and access all
your USB drives.
5. Click the Approved Devices button.
The approved and available USB devices display. The previous figure shows one
approved device and one available device that is not yet approved.
6. In the Available USB Devices table, select the drive that you want to approve.
Note: If you connect a USB hub to the USB port of the extender, the Available
USB Devices table can show more than one USB device.
Note: For information about how to connect the USB drive and to specify its
settings, see Chapter 5, Share a USB Drive That Is Attached to the
Extender.
100
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Setting Description
Enable Media Server Select this check box to enable the extender to function as a media server.
(By default, this check box is already selected.)
Enable TiVo support Select this check box to enable the extender to play ReadyNAS media on
your TiVo device. (By default, this check box is already selected.)
For more information, see the Play Media from a USB Drive on TiVo on
page 102.
Media Server Device Name Specify the name of the media server. The default name is ReadyDLN.
Content Scan Select this check box to enable the extender to automatically scan and
detect media files that are added to the attached USB device. (By default,
this check box is already selected.)
Note: The extender scans only shared folders that have full read access
without a password.
5. If it is not yet selected, select the Enable TiVo support check box.
6. Click the Apply button.
Your changes are saved.
To play videos:
1. On the TiVo, select TiVo Central > My Shows.
Note: For information about how to connect the USB drive and to specify its
settings, see Chapter 5, Share a USB Drive That Is Attached to the
Extender.
105
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
2. In the ReadySHARE Printer pane, click the PC Utility or Mac Utility link.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to download the file.
Note: After you click the Connect and Disconnect buttons once, the utility
automatically manages the printing queue and handling.
To manually connect and print from the printer that is connected to the extender:
4. To release the printer connection so that all computers on the network can use it, click the
Disconnect button.
To print and release the connection to the printer that is connected to the extender:
1. To print your document from your computer, use the print feature in your application.
The NETGEAR USB Control Center automatically connects your computer to the USB
printer and prints the document. If another computer is already connected to the printer,
your print job goes into a queue to wait to be printed.
2. If your document does not print, use the NETGEAR USB Control Center to check the
status.
The scanner screen displays so that you can use the USB printer for scanning.
112
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
FAQs
This section provides answers for difficulties you might experience with the extender.
1. Question. Does the extender work if I connect it to my WiFi router with an Ethernet
cable?
Answer. No, the extender is designed only to connect over WiFi to a WiFi router.
2. Question. What are the default user name and password to log in to the extender?
Answer. If you are online at www.mywifiext.net, you can use the following user name
and password to log in:
User name. admin
Password. password
3. Question. When I try to connect to the network, Smart Setup keeps asking me for my
passphrase, and I am sure Ive entered the correct passphrase. What can I do?
Answer. It is likely that the extender is placed at the borderline of the range that the WiFi
router covers. For more information, see How to Position the Extender on page 15 and
Improve the Connection Between the Extender and the WiFi Router on page 116.
4. Question. I receive an error message on the Review Settings screen on Smart Setup.
What can I do?
Answer. Make sure that your computer or mobile device is connected to the extender by
using the SSID and the passphrase that you have set up and clicking the Refresh button
in your browser. You should be returned to Smart Setup.
5. Question. I connected to NETGEAR_EXT and launched a browser, but why can I not see
Smart Setup?
Answer. First, make sure that your device is set up to use DHCP. Second, make sure
that the Device to Extender Connection LED is green. Finally, relaunch the browser and
enter www.mywifiext.net.
6. Question. I have enabled a WiFi MAC filter (WiFi access control or ACL) on my WiFi router.
What should I do when installing the extender?
Answer. When the WiFi device connects through the extender to your router, the MAC
address of the WiFi device shown on the router is translated to another MAC address. If
your router's MAC filter is enabled, the WiFi device connects to the extender but cannot
get an IP address from the extender and cannot access the Internet. To allow the WiFi
device to receive an IP address from the extender and access the Internet, you must
provide the translated MAC address to the router.
To get the translated MAC address:
a. Disable the MAC filter on your router.
b. Turn on the extender and connect all of your WiFi devices to the extender.
c. Make sure that the Link Rate LED remains lit.
d. Log in to the router and check the attached devices on the Attached Devices or
similar screen.
e. Add any MAC addresses that begin with 02:0F:B5 to your routers MAC filter table.
7. Question. My router security is WEP, and I entered the wrong passphrase or security key
on the extender. I cannot access the extender anymore. What can I do?
Answer. The extender cannot detect whether the WEP passphrase is correct. If you
entered the wrong passphrase, your WiFi device cannot get the IP address from the
extender. You must reset the extender to the factory defaults to get the IP address back.
8. Question. Is seamless roaming supported? During a VoIP call, when I move to a different
location, the call is dropped. What should I do?
Answer. No, the extender does not support seamless roaming. You might notice
performance issues if your WiFi device (laptop, smartphone, or tablet) connects to a
different WiFi network. For example, you might connect to the extender WiFi network,
begin a call, and then move to the location of your existing WiFi network. Your WiFi
device automatically connects to the network in your current location, which takes a few
seconds and might cause your call to be dropped. To prevent this situation, decide which
WiFi network you want to use for your VoIP call, and stay within the range of that network.
To improve the connection between the extender and the WiFi router:
1. Move the extender closer to the WiFi router or to a different spot where it provides a
better line of sight.
You might need to unplug the extender, plug it in again at its new location, and restart it.
Unless the extender is outside the range of your WiFi router, the extender connects
automatically to the WiFi router.
2. As you move the extender, continue to check the Link Rate LED and the Device to Extender
LED on the top panel until you find a location where the Link Rate LED is green or amber,
and the Device to Extender LED is green.
The following tables describe how the LEDs show the quality of the connection.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
Both the Link Rate LED and the Device and The extender provides the best performance.
to Extender LED are green.
The Link Rate LED is amber and the and The extender provides a workable performance.
Device to Extender LED is green.
The Link Rate LED is red. The extender provides a poor performance.
117
AC1200 WiFi Range Extender
Factory Settings
Security Disabled
1. Maximum WiFi signal rate (IEEE Standard 802.11). Actual throughput can vary. Network conditions and environmental factors,
including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead lower actual data throughput rate.
Technical Specifications
Network protocol and Data and routing protocols: TCP/IP, DHCP server and client, DNS relay, NAT
standards compatibility (many-to-one), VPN pass-through (IPSec, PPTP)
Physical specifications Dimensions: 8.5 by 5.75 by 1.3 in. (216 by 146 by 33 mm)
Weight: 0.67 lb (302 g)